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If you’re looking for an easy vintage dessert salad that’s light, creamy, and full of citrus flavor, this mandarin orange cottage cheese jello salad is always a favorite.
Made with cottage cheese, whipped topping, orange gelatin, and sweet mandarin oranges, this old-fashioned recipe comes together in just minutes and is perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, family gatherings, and summer parties.
The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the bright orange flavor, creating a refreshing side dish or simple dessert everyone loves.
It’s one of those classic fluff salads that’s easy to make ahead, which makes it perfect for busy holidays and entertaining.
Whether you serve it alongside a backyard BBQ meal or add it to a holiday dessert table, this fluffy orange jello salad is always a crowd-pleaser.
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Why You’ll Love This Mandarin Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad
This creamy fruit salad only takes a few simple ingredients and a few minutes to prepare. Chilling the salad before serving gives it the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- 16-ounce container cottage cheese
- 8-ounce container whipped topping, thawed
- 3-ounce package orange gelatin
- 11-ounce can mandarin oranges, drained well
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
How to Make Mandarin Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and orange gelatin powder until fully combined.
Fold in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
Gently stir in the drained mandarin oranges and mini marshmallows, if using.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serve chilled.
Tips for the Best Orange Jello Salad
Drain the mandarin oranges well before adding them to the bowl so the salad stays thick and creamy.
For the fluffiest texture, gently fold in the whipped topping instead of stirring too quickly. If you prefer a richer texture, you can replace part of the cottage cheese with softened cream cheese.
This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours because the flavors have time to blend together.
Easy Flavor Variations
This recipe is easy to customize with different fruits and gelatin flavors.
Try using:
- crushed pineapple
- peach slices
- fruit cocktail
- strawberries
- raspberries
You can also swap the orange gelatin for strawberry, raspberry, lemon, or lime gelatin for a completely different flavor combination.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Because this salad contains whipped topping and cottage cheese, it should stay chilled until ready to serve. Freezing is not recommended because it can change the texture.
Serving Ideas
This creamy mandarin orange salad is perfect for:
- potlucks
- holiday dinners
- summer cookouts
- church suppers
- baby showers
- backyard BBQs
Serve it as a sweet side dish or an easy light dessert alongside grilled chicken, burgers, ham, or picnic favorites.
More Easy Salad Recipes
- Creamy Orange Dreamsicle Salad
- Best Creamy Grape Salad
- Pineapple Coleslaw Recipe
- Creamy Dill Pasta Salad
- Waldorf Salad Recipe
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The group home residents and I make this. They love it and nice activity. We also make broken glass jello in the winter.
Is it possible to use fresh fruit, like raspberries, instead of the canned and just fold them into the mixture?
Can you put this in a jello mold. Will it set up and hold its shape
Do I have to add fruit?
Have been making this salad since 1977. Love to change jello flavors and add different fruits to it.